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Mascherano: Messi will stay

Cape Town - Barcelona midfielder Javier Mascherano has dismissed suggestions that compatriot Lionel Messi is looking to leave the club.

Messi had hinted at a possible exit from the Camp Nou in an interview with Argentine publication Ole, admitting the current climate at the Catalan outfit had him contemplating his future.

The news comes despite the Argentina captain stating on numerous occasions his desire to spend the rest of his career at Barca.

And Mascherano has moved to dispel rumours that his international colleague wants out, insisting the four-time Ballon d'Or winner's comments should be taken with a pinch of salt.

"Messi didn't say anything weird, he said what all football players are thinking," the former Liverpool man is quoted as saying by Football411.

"He is fine and wants to keep winning with Barca. As I know Leo, I think he's living a great time not only in football but also in his private life.

"Can you be certain that Leo has problems with Barca? Where did you read it? I didn't see anything about it.

"I don't need to convince you, it is the truth, I have always heard from Leo a lot of thankfulness to Barcelona. He’s one of the greatest players to have every played the game and has always been professional."
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